Contactless a vital part of income recovery for parishes post-Covid

Leonora Rae, EdenTree. Alexander Coleridge, GiveStar, John Green, Catholics in Fundraising. Joe Allen, Friends of Westminster Cathedral

Around 75% of church charities saw a drop in church collections during COVID, according to results of a survey presented at the winter Catholics in Fundraising seminar. The seminar heard how contactless giving is a vital part of the income recovery for dioceses, parishes and church charities. Guest speakers from GiveStar showcased the next generation of 'tap on phone' software that promises to upskill churches to fundraise.

The event noted that technology is not the silver bullet to recovering church giving, but that it will play an increasingly important role, particularly when combined with well-trained volunteers and good messaging.

Catholics in Fundraising convenor, John Green, said: "COVID has been tough for churches and charities alike, this event has equipped us to ensure income improves during the coming years so we can continue to help those in need, thanks to the support of so many parishes and Catholic charities."

The event was attended by fundraisers for Catholic charities, parishes and educational institutions and was generously hosted by EdenTree Investment Management.

For more information about Catholics in Fundraising email jgreen@jesuit.org.uk